Looking back, how have your friendships changed as you've got older?

B Natural answer

Looking back, I’d say my friendships have become much more selective. In my teens and early twenties, I had a big group and was always meeting new people. Now it’s less about quantity and more about trust and consistency. Some friendships have lasted, but a few naturally drifted apart because people moved, changed jobs, or just wanted different things from life. That doesn’t always feel negative; it’s often just part of getting older. The friendships I value now are the ones where we can be honest, catch up without pretending, and make time for one another even when schedules are messy. I also think I listen better than I used to, because I care more about what people are really going through. So overall, the circle is smaller, but the connections feel deeper and more real.

Key phrases in this answer

• less about quantity — focused less on how many and more on quality“For me, friendship is less about quantity and more about trust.”
• make time for one another — set aside time for each other despite being busy“We both make time for one another even with busy jobs.”
• smaller circle — a smaller group of close friends“I have a smaller circle now, but I trust those friends more.”
• keep in touch — stay connected by messaging, calling, or meeting“We kept in touch even after we moved to different cities.”
• show up for each other — be there to support one another when needed“Real friends show up for each other when life gets difficult.”
• drift apart — slowly become less close without a sudden conflict“We drifted apart after university because our lives changed.”